Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is similar to the Bearded Collie in appearance, and sadly is a rare sight in the UK. The Polish Lowland Sheepdog forms part of the pastoral group of dogs.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog breed group

Pastoral

Size of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Medium

Colour varieties of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog comes in a variety of colours and markings that include:

Black

Black & Tan

Black & White

Black Grey & White

Chocolate

Cream

Cream & Fawn

Fawn

Fawn & White

Grey

Grey & White

Country of origin

Poland

Polish Lowland Sheepdog’s uses through history

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog was bred to herd and guard sheep in its native Poland, its thick, shaggy coat providing protection from the often harsh elements. It is a rare sight in the UK with only 47 dogs registered with the Kennel Club throughout the entire year of 2014.

Size and weight of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Height bitch 42-47cms

Height dog 45-50cms

Weight (kilos) bitch 14-18kgs

Weight (kilos) dog 18-23kgs

Exercise requirements of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is an energetic and athletic breed that requires at least an hour of vigorous exercise daily off the lead. The PLS also needs a high level of mental stimulation, otherwise unwanted behaviour such as separation anxiety may occur. The breed is a keen swimmer and excels at dog activities such as agility and herding trials. This breed requires a physically fit and active owner.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog temperament, socialisation with children, other dogs and other pets

The PLS is a confident, intelligent dog with an independent nature. It is an obedient dog, but with a stubborn streak. It’s a dog that like to be kept busy, both physically and mentally. It tends to be a one-person dog and appreciates a confident handler. Training and socialisation should start from an early age, and be ongoing throughout its life. The breed can be prone to snappiness, so care should be taken around children, especially children it is unfamiliar with. Normally, friendly with other dogs, and if well socialised cats as well, but contact with other smaller pets should be avoided.

Is the Polish Lowland Sheepdog a good dog for a first time dog owner?

No, this is a dog for an experienced handler who can provide the exercise levels this breed requires. It is a dog that needs plenty of outside space to exercise, and not suited to living in an apartment or city life. It is not a recommended dog breed for families with young children.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog coat length

Long

Grooming requirements of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

High. The long, dense coarse coat needs daily brushing with a soft slicker brush or comb. The undercoat normally sheds twice a year. Ears should be checked and cleaned regularly for any sign of infection or build up of wax.

Hypoallergenic?

No. The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a shedder, although not heavy, so an unsuitable breed for allergy sufferers.

Health issues in the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is generally a fit and healthy dog with no known inherited health issues at the present time. However, as with all pedigree dogs, it is very important to obtain a puppy from a reputable source where you can be guaranteed that it has been bred with a view to avoiding the inherent physical and psychological diseases of the breed.

Average lifespan of the Polish Lowland Sheepdog

A healthy Polish Lowland Sheepdog can expect to enjoy a life expectancy of between 12-15 years.

Approximate Polish Lowland Sheepdog pedigree puppy price

No current puppy price is available as litters are quite rare. You should register your interest with an assured breeder so they can inform you of expected litters. However, there are generally 2-6 pups in a litter.

Estimating how much a Polish Lowland Sheepdog would need to be fed each day

A bitch weighing 15kgs will require around 237gms of complete dry food daily. A dog weighing 20kgs will require around 283gms of complete dry food daily.

A bitch weighing 15kgs will cost around £5.80 per week to feed. A dog weighing 20kgs will cost around £6.90 per week to feed.

Our figures are based on feeding an ‘above average quality’ and popular complete dry food bought from a leading supermarket.

Other financial costs to consider when owning any dog breed

Remember to budget for essential pet treatments and procedures that are not covered by pet insurance policies including: